DOT Requires New Devices To Reduce Speed-related Truck Accidents

If you’ve ever rented and driven a large vehicle like a moving truck,
you have probably noticed that large and heavy vehicles handle a lot differently
than smaller passenger vehicles. Their extra size and weight means that
coming to a complete stop takes more time and distance than it would in your car.

Imagine, then, how much more difficult it would be to stop an 18-wheeler
traveling at highway speeds. Some of these road giants weigh up to 80,000
pounds. Needless to say, commercial truckers who drive much faster than
the posted speed limit greatly increase the risk of causing a fatal truck accident.

Thankfully, technology exists that can cap how fast a given semi-truck
will be able to travel. The devices are officially called Electronic Control
Modules but are often referred to as speed limiters.

Many trucking companies already require ECMs in their fleets, but some
companies and independent truck drivers continue to resist use of these
important safety devices. That may soon be changing with the recent announcement
of a new mandate by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The DOT announced that as soon as October of this year, ECMs will be required
in trucks weighing more than 26,000 pounds and traveling on roads with
speed limits of 55 mph or higher. Statistical data show that 73 percent
of all fatal crashes involving large trucks occur on roads allowing for
speeds of 55 mph or above. When implemented, the DOT’s mandate could
reduce fatal crashes by an estimated 1,115 accidents per year.

ECMs are a smart, relatively low-cost investment that could save a significant
number of lives. As such, opponents of the devices will have a difficult
time arguing against the DOT’s mandate. Hopefully, all drivers will
soon enjoy safer highways here in Michigan and across the country.

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